P&O Cruises cabins explained: Which cabin should you choose?

Last updated: 06/05/2026 

Choosing the right cabin is one of the most important decisions when booking a P&O Cruises holiday, but it’s not always clear which option is best. 

From Inside cabins to Balcony cabins and Suites, each type offers a slightly different experience. The differences can affect everything from how much space you have to how you spend your time onboard. 

In this guide, we’ll explain the different P&O Cruises cabin types, what’s included, and how to decide which one is right for you. Whether you’re looking for the best value or a more premium experience, this will help you make a confident choice before you book. 

P&O Cruises offers four main cabin types, each designed to suit different budgets and travel styles. The overall experience on board is similar whichever cabin type you choose. However, the main differences come down to space, natural light, and whether you have access to a private outdoor area. 

The four cabin types you’ll find across the P&O Cruises fleet are Inside, Ocean View, Balcony and Suites. 

Inside cabins are the most affordable option and don’t have a window or natural light. They’re designed as a comfortable, practical base for your cruise. They’re a good choice if you plan to spend most of your time exploring the ship or destinations rather than relaxing in your cabin. 

Ocean View cabins feature a window or porthole, letting in natural light and offering a view of the sea. They offer a similar layout to Inside cabins but feel more open and connected to your surroundings. 

Balcony cabins include a private outdoor space with seating, so you can sit outside and enjoy the sea views. They’re a popular choice for many guests, particularly on longer cruises or itineraries with more scenic sailing. 

Suites are the most spacious option and come with a range of additional benefits. Alongside a larger cabin and balcony, suites often include extras. These might be enhanced service, priority boarding or champagne and chocolates on arrival. 

The main difference between cabin types comes down to space, light and whether you have your own outdoor area. Inside cabins are the most budget-friendly, while Suites offer the most space and additional perks. 

While all P&O Cruises cabins offer the same core essentials, there are some key differences depending on the type you choose. These mostly relate to space, natural light and any additional perks. 

Here’s a quick comparison:

Every cabin type includes the essentials you’d expect for a comfortable stay. The main differences come down to space, light and whether you have access to a private outdoor area. 

For a more detailed breakdown of cabin features, layouts and inclusions, take a look at the individual ship pages on our website. 

Arcadia Cabins | Arvia Cabins | Aurora Cabins | Azura Cabins | Britannia Cabins | Iona Cabins | Ventura Cabins

The biggest differences between P&O Cruises cabin types come down to light, space and price. 

The most noticeable step up is from an Inside cabin to an Ocean View. Both offer a similar layout, but the addition of a window can make the cabin feel brighter and less enclosed. Some guests find this more comfortable, especially on longer cruises. 

The next jump is from Ocean View to Balcony cabins. This is less about the indoor space and more about having your own private outdoor area. A balcony gives you somewhere to sit outside, enjoy the view and get some fresh air without needing to go to a public deck.

Suites sit at the top end and offer more space overall, along with added perks. The difference here is not just the size of the cabin, but the overall experience. This often includes extras like priority boarding. 

The best cabin for you will depend on how you plan to spend your time on board, your budget, and your personal preferences. There isn’t a single “right” choice, but some options tend to suit certain types of travellers better than others.

If you’re looking to keep costs down, an Inside cabin is usually the best option. It gives you everything you need for a comfortable stay without paying extra for features you may not use. This can be a good choice if you plan to spend most of your time exploring the ship or heading ashore. 

For first-time cruisers, an Ocean View cabin can feel like a good middle ground. You’ll have natural light and a view of the sea, without the higher cost of a balcony. It’s a simple way to make your cabin feel more connected to the cruise experience. 

Balcony cabins are a popular choice for couples, particularly on longer cruises or scenic itineraries. A private outdoor space gives you somewhere quiet to relax together, away from the busier public areas of the ship. 

For families, the right cabin often comes down to space and layout. Depending on the ship, cabins are available to accommodate more guests, with options like sofa beds or interconnecting rooms. Choosing the right setup can make a big difference to how comfortable your stay feels. 

If you’re looking for more space and added perks, a Suite is the top-tier option. Alongside a larger cabin and balcony, suites often include additional benefits, such as priority boarding and enhanced service, offering a more elevated experience overall. 

Yes, cabin location can make a difference to your overall experience. But how much location matters will depend on your priorities. 

One of the main things to consider is movement. Cabins located midship and on lower decks tend to feel more stable, which can be helpful if you’re concerned about seasickness. Cabins towards the front (forward) or back (aft) of the ship may feel more motion, particularly in rougher seas. 

Noise is another factor. Cabins close to lifts, staircases or busy public areas may be a little noisier at times. If you prefer a quieter environment, it might be worth choosing a cabin away from high-traffic areas. Avoid venues like the theatre, restaurants or pool deck. 

You may also want to think about convenience. Being closer to lifts can make it easier to get around the ship, especially on larger ships like Iona and Arvia. However, cabins further away may involve more walking. 

For many guests, location isn’t the most important factor. But if you have specific preferences, it can make a noticeable difference. Taking a little time to consider where your cabin is located can help you avoid small inconveniences. 

Choosing the right cabin doesn’t need to be complicated. A few simple tips can help you make the best decision for your trip. 

Cabins are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis, so booking earlier gives you more choice in terms of cabin type and location.

If you’re planning to be out exploring the ship or destinations most of the time, a simpler cabin may be all you need. If you expect to spend more time relaxing in your room, it may be worth choosing a cabin with more space or a balcony. 

On cruises with more sea days or scenic sailing, having a balcony can add more value. On port-heavy itineraries, you may find you use your cabin less.

If you’re sensitive to movement, look for cabins midship on lower decks. If you prefer a quieter space, try to avoid cabins near busy public areas.

It can be tempting to upgrade, but it’s worth considering whether you’ll actually use the extra features. 

Before booking, take a look at the ship’s deck plan to see what’s around your cabin. This can help you avoid noisy areas or inconvenient locations. 

Yes, inside cabins can offer excellent value, especially if you plan to spend most of your time exploring the ship or going ashore. They provide a comfortable place to sleep without the added cost of a view or balcony. 

For many guests, a balcony cabin is one of the most appealing options. Whether it’s worth the extra cost depends on how you plan to use it. 

If you like the idea of having your own private space to enjoy, a balcony can add a lot to your experience. But if you’d like to spend most of your time around the ship, you might not use the balcony enough to justify the extra cost. 

Midship cabins on lower decks are often considered the best location if you’re concerned about movement, as they tend to feel more stable. If you prefer convenience, cabins near lifts can make it easier to get around the ship. 

While the main cabin types are consistent across the fleet, the exact layout, size, and decor can vary slightly by ship. Newer ships may offer more modern designs and a wider range of cabin options. 

Upgrading your cabin can be worth it if you plan to spend more time in your room. However, for many guests, a standard cabin provides everything they need.

Yes, in most cases you can choose your cabin when booking, although this may depend on the fare type. Some fares offer a guaranteed cabin within a category, where the exact location is allocated later.